Laneway revitalisation boosted by CBD residential developments

The laneways of Canberra are set to be transformed in the upcoming months after the ACT government City Renewal Authority unveiled plans over the weekend to transform the “waste-dominated” areas into public spaces.

Laneways in the Sydney and Melbourne buildings will be rebranded as spaces to be used for public events, festivals and outdoor dining and entertainment.

City Renewal Authority chief executive office Malcolm Snow said the revitalised laneways would provide new places for Canberrans to enjoy the city centre.

Laneways around the Sydney and Melbourne buildings, including Verity Lane pictured, are set for renewal over the next few months. Photo: Sitthixay Ditthavong

“I am excited to see how the improvement to these spaces changes the way they are used by the businesses around them,” he said.

The two laneways are currently primarily used as waste-collection hubs with more than 80 bins. The City Renewal Authority has received development approval for two architecturally designed waste enclosures in each laneway so the bins can be placed out of sight.

“The use of these laneways as waste collection yards has stopped them from being used for much else, but the completion of these enclosures will be a game changer for these historic buildings,” said Snow.

In November last year, Odger’s Lane (Melbourne building laneway) welcomed its first cafe – Cafe Meadow. It is also home to the Cuban-themed bar Highball Express and Molly.

An artist’s impression of Highgate, the new mixed-use precinct for Canberra’s CBD. Photo: Supplied